When comparing certain amino acid sequences in the protein hemoglobin of humans to those of other animals, scientists found that baboons had seven different amino acids (than the human protein), dogs had ten different amino acids, gorillas had one different amino acid and lemurs had eight different amino acids. Which of these animals is most closely related to humans?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The smaller the number of different amino acids in the hemoglobin protein, the closer the evolutionary relationship is thought to be between two species. Since gorillas have only one different amino acid compared to humans, they are the closest evolutionary relative among the animals listed.

When Comparing Certain Amino Acid Sequences in the Protein Hemoglobin